When winter rolls around in Georgia, the last thing you want is a dull, lifeless yard. Luckily, plenty of evergreen bushes thrive in our southern climate, keeping your landscape lush, green, and even fragrant when most plants are asleep.
Whether you’re in the mountains of North Georgia (Zone 6) or the coastal plains (Zone 9), here’s a guide to the best evergreen shrubs that can handle Georgia winters beautifully.
Camellia
Camellia japonica and Camellia sasanqua are Southern classics for a reason. They offer glossy evergreen leaves and bloom from fall through early spring, adding welcome color when few other plants dare to flower.
- Light: Part shade to shade
- Soil: Moist, well-drained, acidic
- Pro Tip: Protect from strong winter winds in colder areas.
Holly
Holly shrubs bring that festive look all winter long. Their shiny leaves and bright red berries make them perfect for hedges or holiday decor straight from your own yard.
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Well-drained
- Note: Choose male and female varieties if you want berries!
Boxwood
Boxwoods are the go-to for structure and evergreen formality. Their dense, year-round foliage works great for borders or foundation plantings.
- Light: Sun to part shade
- Soil: Well-drained, loamy
- Watch out: Avoid exposed, windy sites to prevent winter burn.
Gardenia
Few plants smell as heavenly as a gardenia. This evergreen shrub shines in late spring and summer but holds its glossy green leaves through winter—especially in warmer parts of Georgia.
- Light: Part shade to full sun
- Soil: Moist, acidic, well-drained
- Tip: Cover young plants if temps dip below freezing.
Distylium
A newer favorite in Southern landscapes, Distylium is tough, adaptable, and keeps its rich green foliage through the cold months. It’s perfect for low-maintenance landscapes.
- Light: Full sun to part shade
- Soil: Average, well-drained
- Why it’s great: Heat, drought, and pest resistant!
Arborvitae
For privacy screens or a lush backdrop, Arborvitae is a dependable evergreen. Choose dwarf varieties for smaller spaces or towering ones for natural fencing.
- Light: Full sun
- Soil: Well-drained
- Caution: In open areas, protect from cold, drying winter winds.
Juniper
Tough as nails and drought-tolerant once established, Junipers offer reliable greenery and texture all year. Perfect for slopes, rock gardens, or borders.
- Light: Full sun
- Soil: Well-drained, sandy or rocky
- Bonus: Many varieties are resistant to deer browsing.
Fragrant Tea Olive (Osmanthus fragrans)
Tea olives are beloved across the South for their small, intensely fragrant blooms that often appear in fall or winter.
- Light: Sun to part shade
- Soil: Moist but well-drained
- Why we love it: The sweet scent will stop you in your tracks.
“Soft Caress” Mahonia
This low-maintenance beauty offers delicate, feathery leaves and cheerful yellow winter blooms. It’s a unique evergreen that adds texture and brightness when you need it most.
- Light: Part shade
- Soil: Well-drained
- Perfect for: Woodland gardens or shaded entries.
Winter Care Tips for Georgia Evergreens
- Mulch generously: Helps insulate roots and prevent freeze-thaw damage.
- Water before hard freezes: Hydrated plants are more cold-tolerant.
- Block winter wind: Plant near fences, walls, or other windbreaks.
- Mix textures and sizes: Layer tall and low evergreens for a rich, year-round look.